Magic Rosin - X Formula

5 Years ago I did a Spotlight Review of Magic Rosin (3G Formula). I was extremely sceptical of the rosin at the time. The rosin seemed very gimmicky being clear with an often silly image underneith. I was expecting it to not be anything more than a novilty item. Since that review I have used nothing but Magic Rosin. It has replaced my old standard, Andrea A Piacere​.

This sample of X Formula was sent to me through Connolly Music. A note was delivered with it stating that the rosin has a "...Powerful feel, please use sparingly at first..." 

My initial tests with this rosin were with my violin and viola bows. I applied a couple strokes over top of the Magic Rosin Ultra Formula that was already on the hairs. Ultra is a bit grippier than 3G, but no where near the tackiness of X. The X formula is clearly grippier by just touching your finger to it. It is not plyable like Pops' Bass Rosin, but with pressing your finger to the cake you can feel a bit of adheasion. The X formula rosin applies very easily. There was not trouble moving past the polished surface and no scratching was ever needed. 

A note about my personal preference for rosin, I tend to lean towards "darker" rosin. It may be from living in Michigan where winters can be quite cold and dry, but I find I prefer the response of softer rosins overall on my violin and viola.

The difference was imediate in playing. The bow has a very constant grip and snap on the strings. Spiccato on the C string was clear without needing much added weight. I did need to watch how much I added. Anything more than a couple strokes lead to a grainy sound on the strings. Whenever that happened I had to wipe a little off with a soft cloth. 

I then tested the rosin on my cello bow. This will for sure be my new go to. It should be noted that the strings on my cello are a lighter tension (Pro Arté by d'Addario) strings, and results may vary if you prefer steel strings or higher tension. I did test this rosin on my bass bow, however I don't feel my skills are adiquite to properly critique the response and sound.

The tone and response on all three models of Magic Rosin have been fantastic. If you have not tried one out I would start with the Ultra and if it is too grippy or hard for your liking, adjust from there. X Formula is a great addition to this line and will be staying in my viola case, not as my main rosin, but as as additive whenever I need a bit extra grip.

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